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Student life

10 top tips for students

Starting university can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Before you know it, it’ll be arrival day and it helps to be prepared. To get ready for the big day, we’ve put together a few useful tips to help things go smoothly.

From what not to bring, to icebreakers and what to do when you arrive, we’ve got it covered.

1. Check what you can take

Lots of universities require you to have your electrical items PAT tested before arrival, some may also restrict the use of fairy lights, kettles and mini fridges. Be sure to check with your accommodation provider before you arrive.

2. Save your pennies

Keep a stash of 50p and pound coins. They're great for the laundry room and the vending machine.

3. Complete an inventory

Take photos of your room when you move in and again when you move out. It’ll help if there are any disputes over deposits.

4. There’s no such thing as too much fancy dress

You can never have too much fancy dress! Make a dressing-up box, it’ll come in useful, especially during freshers’ week. Don’t forget to take your old school tie with you - there’s bound to be a back to school night.

5. Explore in numbers

Once you’ve made an acquaintance or two, don’t stop there. Use the safety in numbers to go knock on new doors and make some more.

6. Take flip flops

If you’re living in halls with shared bathrooms, take flip flops (you’ll thank us for this one)!

7. Don’t buy all brand new books

Don’t buy all the books on your reading list, you’ll be able to find multiple copies in the library, or buy them second hand much cheaper from final year students.

8. Freshers' flu survival kit

Unfortunately, it’s inevitable you’ll end up coming down with freshers' flu. Make sure you take a little survival pack with you, including a pack of tissues and plenty of paracetamol!

9. Society happy

Make sure you get involved in clubs and societies as they’re a great way to make friends. However, don’t sign up to everything and anything as it will cost you a fortune in joining fees.

10. Tea time icebreaker

Take a tin of biscuits or sweets with you and go knock on your neighbours’ doors. If you’re sitting in your room thinking everyone is out having fun, the people around you are likely to be doing the same! Biscuits are great icebreakers.

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